James Gilbert Moore, Jr.

James G. Moore, Jr. of Rockford, IL, passed away on Wednesday, March 29 while vacationing in Napa, California. James was born on Feb. 25, 1953 to Rose Marie and James G. Moore, Sr.

After graduating from Lanphier High School in Springfield, IL, James earned his Bachelor’s Degree in English from Illinois State University. As an English teacher, James found his calling to help and inspire others. He would later dedicate his time serving special populations as a social worker for the State of Illinois. During his time with the State, he received his Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Wisconsin-Stout.

In 2012, Jim retired and discovered a newfound love of travel. He was able to visit longtime friends, family and even attend a music boot camp hosted by the son of one of his most revered music artists, Dweezil. Jim spent the rest of his days working on his novel, strumming his guitar, and spending time with his family and loving companion Valerie.

He is survived by his mother, Rose Marie Moore; his children Philip (Stephanie) Moore, Angela (Taylor Wilson) Moore and Joel Moore; three grandchildren, Torrence, Olivia, and Orion; his companion Valerie Timmcke; brothers Paul, Danny, Dominic, Andy, Timothy, Matthew, and Martin and two sisters, Marie Shepherd; Kathleen Raymundo and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, James G. Moore, Sr., and his brother, Christopher Lee Moore.

Services will be held at St. Agnes Church, 245 N Amos Ave, on Thursday April 6, with a viewing at 10 am and a mass at 11 am, followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery.